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What is Community Engaged Learning?
Community Engaged Learning (CEL) bridges academic coursework with community needs, providing a robust framework for students to apply their classroom knowledge in real-world settings. This approach not only enhances academic learning but also fosters significant community contributions.
Why Community Engaged Learning?
As part of our ongoing commitment to deepen our educational impact and strengthen community ties, MSU Denver has transitioned from the term “Service Learning” to “Community Engaged Learning” (CEL). This change reflects a more comprehensive approach to learning and collaboration:
- Reciprocal Partnerships: CEL emphasizes equal partnerships where both students and community members benefit, enhancing the educational process through mutual learning and growth.
- Sustained Engagement: Unlike short-term projects typical of traditional service learning, CEL focuses on long-term interactions that allow for more substantial and impactful community relationships.
- Broader Impact: CEL aims to create broader impacts on both the community and student learning by integrating community needs and solutions into the academic curriculum.
This name change signals a shift towards more integrated, impactful, and community-focused educational experiences. It aligns with national trends in higher education and reflects our dedication to preparing students for effective civic engagement and professional readiness.
Key Benefits of Community Engaged Learning
- Real-World Application: Directly apply your academic knowledge to real-world challenges, enhancing learning and making tangible differences in the community.
- Professional Skills Development: Build critical skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving that are essential for career success.
- Leadership and Initiative: Take the lead on projects that matter, demonstrating commitment to your values and community.
- Critical Thinking and Innovation: Tackle complex problems with innovative solutions through hands-on project execution and strategic thinking.
- Recognition: Earn special transcript notations that highlight your engagement and achievements in CEL.
Engagement and Collaboration
Community Engaged Learning courses involve working closely with community partners and peers to develop and implement solutions to real-world problems, providing a unique opportunity to experience the dynamics of teamwork and community interaction.
Leadership Through Engagement
CEL courses are an excellent way to demonstrate initiative and leadership. They offer a platform to practice decision-making and ethical leadership, preparing you for responsible citizenship and professional roles.
Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, and Decision Making
Engage in complex problem-solving scenarios that enhance your ability to analyze, reflect, and act in challenging situations. CEL fosters a deep understanding of course content through practical application, making your educational experience both dynamic and impactful.
Success Stories
Stay tuned for inspiring stories from students who have thrived through their involvement in CEL projects, illustrating the profound personal and community impact of their work.
Find a Community Engaged Learning Course
Discover courses that offer a CEL component by searching the course catalog. Use the Advanced Search feature and select ‘Community Engaged Learning’ under Attributes to find available courses for the semester.
Connect with Us
For more detailed information or to get involved, please contact me, Nora Bashir, your Community Engaged Learning Program Manager. View my contact information here.
Click Here to View Nora's Contact Information